Vietnam’s leaf exports surge, earning nearly US$9 million in 2025 Once overlooked as humble agricultural byproducts, Vietnamese leaves — including cassava, bay, banana, lemon, and sweet potato — are emerging as high-value export items, generating US$9 million in revenue in the first eight months of 2025, a 27% increase year-on-year, according to the General Department of Customs. Cassava leaves led exports with nearly US$3 million, while bay leaves posted the fastest growth at 68.5%. Global demand, particularly from Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Muslim-majority countries, has been rising thanks to the leaves’ culinary versatility and nutritional value. In domestic markets, cassava leaves sell for just US$0.12–$0.20 per kilogram, yet can fetch up to US$2.80 abroad. Meanwhile, banana leaves are being reimagined as eco-friendly packaging, and sweet potato leaves are marketed as a premium vegetable in East Asian markets. According to Đặng Phúc Nguyễn, General Secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, leaf exports not only diversify revenue streams but also add value to agricultural byproducts while tapping into green and sustainable gastronomy trends. He added that Vietnam’s overall fruit and vegetable exports are on track for a record-breaking US$8 billion in 2025, highlighting the growing global appeal of Vietnam’s agricultural innovation. — ICE News / VNS (ICE HO CHI MINH CITY)

Fonte notizia: Vietnam Investment Review